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Research Lab Manager Position

Apply to this position through McMaster Careers – Staff Job ID 21482

The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology (CCB) has historically operated its research program within the Arthur Bourns Building (ABB) as stand-alone spaces that are the responsibility of a single principal investigator (PI).  Renovations to ABB research space will create new large open-concept research labs that will be shared among multiple research groups across two faculties (Science & Engineering) and will foster inter-disciplinary research.

Job Summary 

Optimize the efficient use of an open concept research space. Initiate procedures and policies in open-concept lab. Oversee the training in safety and SOP documentation and training in open concept labs. Maintain equipment and ensure the operation of safe and orderly working within shared spaces.  Assist in the design and construction components of renovation projects involving research in the department.

Purpose and Key Functions: 

• Develop and implement short-term and long-term plans to ensure effective and efficient use of laboratory equipment and resources, in collaboration with Principle Investigators.
• Participate in the strategic planning with leadership in the department in regards to the space.
• Initiate procedures and policies in each open-concept lab.
• Mentor and advise students and post-doctoral fellows in consultation with the researchers in the lab and in collaboration with their research supervisor.
• Provide advice and guidance to others regarding the space and equipment.
• Maintain laboratory space inventory and interact with other departments for required services to the building such as maintenance repairs, renovations, security, emergency responses.
• Maintain a safe working environment in the integrated laboratories.
• Develop and deliver safety training applicable to the shared lab space and equipment.
• Review, maintain and monitor a variety of laboratory safety reports and training documentation.
• Provide recommendations for best practices with regards to health and safety for the space.
• Write a variety of documents including training procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Interact with faculty members and other technical staff when seeking expertise in relation to equipment and research techniques.
• Remain current with frequent advances and developments in research techniques and strategies. Participate in public relations activities on behalf of the integrated laboratories.
• Negotiate with vendors and suppliers on purchasing and repairing materials and equipment for the facilities.
• Troubleshoot issues related to equipment failure and contamination.
• Schedule laboratory equipment for use.
• Maintain the fixed asset inventory and develop replacement plans.
• Make recommendations on the acquisition of new equipment and replacement of aging infrastructure.
• Calibrate and maintain scientific equipment and instruments in accordance with prescribed requirements.
• Perform minor equipment repairs and arrange for major repairs through supervisor or outside contractor.
• Serve as the technical expert liaison for faculty and staff for interactions with internal university units  and with external engineering and architectural firms.
• Assess deficiencies and provide solutions to ensure compliance with policies and procedures in the laboratory space
• Exchange technical and scientific information with others.
• Attend and participate in lab meetings.
• Review architectural, electrical and mechanical drawings prior to and during construction and renovations to ensure requirements are being met.
• Work closely with Project Managers or General Contractors to ensure construction is proceeding according to drawings. 
• Ensure laboratory facilities, equipment, and area are in clean, safe working order.
• Update, maintain, and verify inventory control of chemicals, media, and supplies.
• Oversee the proper storage of materials and the appropriate disposal of waste for user lab groups.
• Input, maintain, and verify information in a variety of databases and spreadsheets.

Supervision:

• Provides functional guidance to others on an ongoing basis.  

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.

 

 

 

The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology (CCB) has historically operated its research program within the Arthur Bourns Building (ABB) as stand-alone spaces that are the responsibility of a single principal investigator (PI).  Renovations to ABB research space will create new large open-concept research labs that will be shared among multiple research groups across two faculties (Science & Engineering) and will foster inter-disciplinary research.